The Trial of Dedan Kimathi Cover Image

The Trial of Dedan Kimathi

by Ngugi wa Thiong'o

Start Free Trial

Student Question

What literary and stylistic devices are used in the second section of The Trial of Dedan Kimathi?

Quick answer:

In the section, Ngugi wa Thiong'o and Micere Githae Mugo use imagery to depict the judge, symbolism to underscore the judge’s character, and repetition to highlight the uncertain meaning of “law,” “criminal,” and other legal terms.

Expert Answers

An illustration of the letter 'A' in a speech bubbles

Ngugi wa Thiong'o and Micere Githae Mugo use several stylistic devices in the back and forth between the judge and Dedan Kimathi. In fact, the section begins with a stylistic device. Ngugi and Mugo start off the section with an image. The judge is “playing with his glasses.” These words create a clear picture of the judge fiddling with his spectacles. With imagery, Ngugi and Mugo provide the reader a clear portrait of what the judge is doing as he presides over Kimathi’s trial.

The very next clause, as it so happens, contains another stylistic device. Now, Ngugi and Mugo have moved on from imagery and have taken up symbolism. The judge is not literally “oozing infinite patience.” The judge is not slime; he’s not a sauce. Yet through this figurative style of language—this symbol of oozing—the reader can deduce something about the judge’s character.

A third stylistic device to think about—one that presents itself through the section—is repetition. As the judge and Kimathi continue their back and forth, many of the same words are said over and over again. These words include “death,” “criminal,” “court,” and “law.” The repetition of these words demonstrate their importance. It also possibly indicates their subjective or unclear meaning. Neither the judge nor Kimathi seem to agree on what these lofty words mean or how they should be applied.

Get Ahead with eNotes

Start your 48-hour free trial to access everything you need to rise to the top of the class. Enjoy expert answers and study guides ad-free and take your learning to the next level.

Get 48 Hours Free Access
Approved by eNotes Editorial